Save Money with Double Pane Windows

Ug 1.1 W/qmK

Today's standard double glazing has a U-value of 1.1 W/qmK according to the DIN EN 673 standard. The glass construction configuration is 4mm of float glass, 16mm pane separation and a second pane of 4mm float glass. The Uw-value is then 1.30 W/qmK for Aluplast uPVC windows in the 5-chamber system and pine windows. A Meranti wood window has a slightly better Uw-value of 0.1 W/qmK lower.

Ug 1.0 W/qmK

This double glazing has a 1.0 W/qmK U-value. The glass construction configuration is 4mm of float glass, 16mm pane separation and a second pane of 4mm float glass. The Uw-value is then 1.20 W/qmK for Aluplast uPVC windows in the 5-chamber system and pine windows. A Meranti window has a slightly better Uw-value of 0.1 W/qmK lower.

The energy properties of glass panes are measured by three different values, known as the A, G and U-values. These three values describe the seal efficiency, light transmission and thermal transmission coefficients of double glazing respectively. For example, the lower the U-value, the higher the overall energy efficiency. Double glazed windows are built using several special processes for both the glass and frame to ensure overall performance, reduce heat loss, air leakage and prevent condensation build up. They consist of two glass panes separated by a vacuum or gas filled space.

Factors such as the distance between panes, pane thickness, and the filling between panes play important roles. For example, a window's insulation properties can be improved by filling the space between panes with a noble gas such as argon or krypton. They are poor conductors of heat making them ideal in windows. Choosing a thermal reflective coating can also make a difference in overall thermal performance, energy savings and the window's energy rating. And of course, lower energy bills throughout the year are a nice benefit too!

Double-glazed panes serve not only to regulate the temperature within buildings, but can also considerably improve overall quality of life when combined with sound insulation. With steady growth in urban areas, noise pollution is an increasing concern among homeowners. Double glazing helps reduce distracting and disturbing exterior noise and create a more pleasant working and living environment.

Panes fitted with special sound insulation have been shown to reduce the levels of noise in a range of 50 to 100 Hz by c. 6 dB– which for the human ear represents a reduction by roughly one half in perceived noise levels. Double-glazed panes additionally offer protection against possible break-in. Specially hardened and coated window glass is shatter-proof and presents an obstacle which is difficult to overcome. Double glazing is ideal when additional security is required.

Not just the glass, but the window frame itself plays an important overall role. Double glazing can be combined with almost any type of window frame – regardless of whether this is vinyl, wood or aluminum. Insulating glass can be integrated into every type of frame material. 

The window frame also influences a window's overall insulation value. Double glazing can be combined with any profile material including vinyl (uPVC), wood and aluminum. Both wood and vinyl boast good natural insulation properties whereas metal frames conduct heat and can increase energy costs. Windows24.com can custom build any combination of energy efficient, thermally insulated, sound-proofed and anti-burglar windows in double glazing to meet requirements. Installation help can be found on our site or a quick call to customer service.